Heloise: Residue tough to remove

Dear Heloise: I bought pants that had a manufacturer's sticker on it. The residue will not come off when the garment is washed. Do you have any suggestions? — Wonda from Mississippi

Good question, and I have a hint for you! I answered this very question in my Good Housekeeping magazine column earlier this year, so please read on.

Put the adhesive area facedown on a clean terry towel or washcloth and pour acetone-based nail-polish remover on the spot (it should be safe, since the garment is washable). Then rub with another clean towel to push the remover through the material. Turn the garment over to check that the adhesive is coming off; it may take several attempts. — Heloise

Dear Readers: With the holidays arriving, here are some hints to keep your pets safe:

■ Cats love to chew on garland and swing at ornaments, so take note.

■ Check extension cords so that pets can't chew on them.

■ No candy or other sugary treats! Let your guests know.

■ NEVER give pets turkey or chicken bones; they can splinter and puncture or become lodged in a pet's throat or digestive tract, or cause other serious medical issues.

■ Consider putting your pets in a back room if the entry door will be opening and closing, to reduce the risk of an escapee.

"Woof, woof" from Cabbie, our mini schnauzer! — Heloise

Dear Readers: Using and storing cleaning products? Here are some of the dos and don’ts of cleaning-product safety:

■ Always read and follow label directions to the letter. Store cleaning products out of the reach of children and pets.

■ DO NOT leave a bucket of water or water and cleaning solution anywhere, especially if you have a toddler around.

■ These hints are from one of my books, "Heloise Conquers Stinks and Stains," available online. — Heloise

Dear Heloise: Sometimes, my brothers and I get certificates or awards at school for doing something special. After a few days on the refrigerator, there is always a question of what to do with them.

My mom then came up with an idea. She got each of us a three-ring binder filled with plastic sheet savers. When we get a certificate, we slip it in the book. Now each of us has a special place to keep our awards, and they are kept nice and in order. — Camden, via email

Dear Heloise: We are in the process of potty-training our son. A friend told me of a great way to help him "hit the mark," if you will. We place a few round oat cereal pieces in the bowl. This gives my son a target. Well, it is working for him! — Sarah, via email

Send your hints to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000. You also can fax it to 1-210-HELOISE or email it to heloise@heloise.com.